Mercury Emissions

Objective

Ensure that the regulation of mercury is based upon sound science and the best data available, considers actual health risks, considers the impacts on energy supplies and the economy, and is undertaken in the most efficient manner possible, fully utilizing the co-benefits provided from the regulation of other pollutants.

Summary of the Issue

Mercury is a widespread and naturally occurring element, but to control its emissions from coal fired power plants, EPA developed the world's first program for reducing these emissions by utilizing a flexible cap and trade marketable permit program that utilizes the co-benefits of existing technologies for the control of other common pollutants.

In the last few years, an inadequate assessment of relevant science has led to the mistaken conclusion that exposure to mercury emissions from coal fired plants presents a significant health risk to Americans that necessitates implementation of the maximum achievable control technology (MACT). However, this conclusion is based upon subsequently discredited studies that fail to control for other harmful chemical agents. Moreover, the technology necessary to universally achieve MACT reductions does not exist in a widespread and commercially viable form and would lead to many plants abandoning affordable sources of energy in favor of far more expensive natural gas, which is increasingly in demand and suffers from substantial price volatility. Finally, recent federally-funded studies show that mercury exposure from fish consumption, at present levels, is not harmful to the health of Americans, suggesting that further regulatory controls are unnecessary to protect human health.

U.S. Chamber Strategy

• The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for market-based regulatory approaches that enhance the nation's energy security, ensure economic growth, do not impede environmental progress, and rely on co-benefits to encourage cost-effective multi-pollutant strategies.

Staff Contact

Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs Division
(202) 463-5533
environment@uschamber.com